From law at Akron to president of Missouri Western State University; Wilson introduces himself

By BRENT MARTIN

St. Joseph Post

MWSU President-Designate shares a laugh during his address on the St. Joseph campus.

A law professor from the University of Akron introduced himself to Missouri Western State University as the next Missouri Western president during a ceremony on the St. Joseph campus this afternoon.

President-Designate Matt Wilson says one of the most important things a university president can do is listen.

“As your incoming president, it’s my intention to solicit information, to listen intently to your thoughts, your observations, and your ideas,” Wilson told the crowd gathered at the Remington Atrium. “Please know that listening trumps any preconceived notions or any plans or things that I might have.”

Wilson served as president of the University of Akron in Ohio from 2016 to 2018 before returning to the Akron School of Law. Wilson led a two-year budget turn-around at the school, turning a $30 million deficit into a $12 million-dollar surplus.

Wilson said he’s excited to get started July first.

Wilson greets attendees after speaking to the group.

“It’s my mission to help the world discover the magic that we have here at Missouri Western,” Wilson said. “There are so many great things here at this university that range from accessibility to affordability, to quality, to hands-on practical learning, to opportunities in academics and music, the arts, sports, and life, and in leadership.”

Wilson said he sees a bright future ahead for Missouri Western.

“I’m convinced that here at Missouri Western, everything is possible, especially if we re-double our commitment to students, student success, applied learning, degree completion, service, workforce readiness and the like.”

Wilson will succeed Robert Vartabedian, who will retire after leading Missouri Western for 11 years.

The MWSU Board of Governors voted unanimously for Wilson to become the fifth president of Missouri Western.

Wilson has an extensive academic background. He served as associate dean of the University of Wyoming College of Law as well as senior associate dean and general counsel of Temple University Japan. He served as a visiting professor at three universities in Asia. Wilson worked in a law firm before beginning his career in higher education.